Good Candidates for Vein Removal Treatment

Are you bothered by the appearance of spider veins on your legs or other parts of your body? This common skin condition tends to affect those who are older or overweight, although it can affect other people as well. No matter what the cause, if you are suffering from this condition you are probably seeking out your vein removal treatment options. Sclerotherapy and laser therapy are two of the most popular treatment options for spider veins.

Causes of Spider Veins

Veins that are working correctly will allow blood to flow through them in one direction only: back to the heart. They are responsible for transporting deoxygenated blood from other parts of your body to your heart where they pick up another supply of oxygen and repeat the process. Functioning veins contain one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing back into them. Spider veins are dysfunctional blood vessels with valves that do not function properly. This leads to their well-known blue or red spider web-like appearance.

Sclerotherapy Treatment

Sclerotherapy is a treatment for spider veins that is very well-established in the medical community. We inject the dysfunctional vein with an irritating solution that causes its walls to collapse, destroying it. Your body will then absorb what remains of the dysfunctional vein. Any blood that was flowing through it will be rerouted into neighboring blood vessels.

After Your Procedure

After your sclerotherapy treatment, remain active and avoid prolonged sitting and standing. You will need to wear compression stockings for about two weeks and only remove them to shower. Avoid running, weightlifting, and other strenuous physical activity for one week.

Do not apply heat to your legs like hot baths or sun exposure for one week. This can cause your blood vessels to dilate. Refrain from consuming salty food and remain hydrated.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a more modern vein removal treatment for spider veins that involves the use of a laser that targets the walls of the problem vein, resulting in its destruction. Like sclerotherapy, the blood that once traveled through the problem vein will now flow through nearby blood vessels that are healthy.

The procedure should take about an hour and can be performed on an outpatient basis at our office. There are no special restrictions or requirements following your procedure except for the need to wear a compression bandage and avoid flying or long car trips. No additional bed rest is necessary, and you are encouraged to remain active after your treatment.